Lunar Surface Is Cracking as New Tectonic Map Reveals Recent Ridges Stretching Across the Moon, Study Suggests

Recent research has unveiled a comprehensive global map of the Moon's surface, revealing over 1,100 previously unidentified mare ridges. This study suggests that the Moon's tectonic activity is not only younger than previously thought but also more extensive, indicating ongoing geological processes. The identified ridges, formed by thrust faults akin to lobate scarps, highlight that the lunar crust is continuing to shrink. This new understanding implies a broader potential for moonquakes, prompting a reevaluation of seismic risks associated with upcoming lunar missions, such as NASA's Artemis program. As space agencies prepare for further exploration, these findings could significantly influence mission planning and safety protocols on the Moon, emphasizing the need for updated assessments of the lunar environment.